ASPC To Evaluate Pit Bulls Seized from Vick's Property
UPDATE ON MICHAEL VICK CASE: ASPCA TO LEAD EVALUATIONS OF PIT BULLS SEIZED FROM VICK’S PROPERTY
On Monday, August 27, the U. S. Attorney’s office revealed that Dr. Melinda Merck, ASPCA Forensic Veterinarian, participated in the excavation of graves and the examination of canine remains found on Vick’s Virginia property. Now the ASPCA has a new challenge to face—leading a team of behaviorists in evaluating pit bulls taken from Vick’s property during the course of the investigation.
Dr. Stephen Zawistowski, the ASPCA’s Science Advisor and Executive Vice President, National Programs, will head up the team that will conduct the evaluations. San Francisco-based BAD RAP (Bay Area Doglovers Responsible About Pit Bulls), a nonprofit educational resource for pit bull parents and handlers, will be working with the evaluation team to help identify which dogs are eligible for foster programs and possible rehoming into appropropriate foster homes.
Other options for the rescued pit bulls may include rehabilitation as law enforcement dogs, placement in sanctuaries or, if there is no other choice, humane euthanasia. The ASPCA-led team will provide a report to the USDA; the final disposition of the dogs, however, will be decided by a federal judge. During the evaluation process, the dogs will remain in the federal government’s possession. At no time will the ASPCA take possession of them.
“We greatly appreciate the trust placed in us by the USDA to ensure that these dogs are given every possibility for a second chance,” says Ed Sayres, ASPCA President & CEO. “We take this phase of the investigation very seriously. Fighting dogs face many challenges when considered for rehabilitation or placement, and we’ll make sure they get the professional, thorough and detailed evaluations they deserve.”
For further details on the ASPCA’s role in the Michael Vick case and for important information on dog fighting, please visit the ASPCA Anti-Cruelty Resource Center.
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